LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Legendary former player Andrew Johns has thrown his hat into the ring in the ongoing saga surrounding Souths star Latrell Mitchell.
Drawing parallels between his own illustrious career and Mitchell's, Johns issued a cautionary tale to the embattled fullback, urging him to straighten up his act at the Rabbitohs.
Mitchell is bracing for a possible one-game ban following the notorious 'white powder' photo scandal, with reports swirling that the South Sydney board is contemplating inserting a behavioral clause into his hefty $1.2 million NRL contract.
This latest setback adds to a string of controversies for Mitchell this season, prompting seasoned league reporter Phil Rothfield to claim that the Rabbitohs are growing weary of the negative press and distractions surrounding the player.
From embroilments in racial controversies to public spats with fellow Indigenous figure Anthony Mundine, Mitchell has found himself in hot water both on and off the field.
His fiery radio interview post-game and suspension for an elbow incident earlier in the season have only added fuel to the fire.
Now, with the white powder debacle from a recent community visit in Dubbo making headlines, the Rabbitohs are eager to stamp out the negativity.
While the NRL has not found concrete evidence of any wrongdoing by Mitchell, a breach notice for "bringing the game into disrepute" has been issued.
As Mitchell gears up to respond to the allegations this week, he will also face repercussions from his club as he stands before the South Sydney board.
As the Rugby League world watches on with bated breath, the pressure is on for Mitchell to heed Johns' admonishment and rise above the turmoil that threatens to tarnish his career.
Time will tell if the young gun can dodge this latest off-field tackle and emerge stronger on the other side.